Stained Glass &Lead Window FAQs

Stained-glass windows are a type of decorative window that’s been made from pieces of coloured glass. These individual panes are often arranged to create patterns, images, or intricate designs.

Traditionally seen in churches and historic buildings, stained glass is also a popular feature in modern homes due to its ability to transform natural light into beautiful, colourful displays.

Each of our stained-glass windows is handmade using traditional methods. We begin by creating a bespoke design, with the stained glass being painted, fired, and cut and ground to shape. The pieces are then fitted into lead cames, soldered together, and cemented for strength and waterproofing. Finally, then panel is cleaned and installed, resulting in a beautifully crafted window.

While exact costs will vary depending on the size and complexity of the design, stained glass is typically more expensive than a standard window. This is mainly due to the craftsmanship, materials, and time involved in creating or restoring each piece.

It’s important to remember that you’re investing in a handcrafted piece of art that’s been created with care, skill, and using traditional techniques. The result is something uniquely beautiful and full of character that a regular window can’t provide.

No, genuine stained glass will not fade over time. The rich colours are created by adding metal oxides to molten glass, so the colour becomes part of the glass itself rather than just a surface coating. However, any painted details may wear if not properly kiln-fired, which is why expert craftsmanship is key to long-lasting results.

At Sherriff Stained Glass Specialists, our stained-glass repairs are handled with care using time-honoured conservation techniques.Small breaks can often be fixed in situ: the damaged section is removed, a matching piece of glass is cut, then the lead came is folded back into place and waterproofed with lead light cement.

For more extensive damage – such as bowed panels or worn lead joints – the entire panel may need to be carefully removed to our workshop, disassembled, repaired, and rebuilt. Original glass is retained wherever possible, while cracked or missing sections are replaced with well-matched new glass and re-leaded for strength.

Learn more about our stained glass window repairs here.

Stained glass doesn’t block light but instead can diffuse or soften it depending on the colours and textures used. This allows natural light to pass through and creates a warm, vibrant effect.

Leaded windows, also known as lead lights, are a type of decorative window constructed using small panes of glass held together by lead cames. This traditional technique allows for various designs – ranging from the simple to the complex – and is often used with both clear glass and stained-glass windows.

New lead windows are made by cutting individual pieces of glass to match a design, then fitting them into lead cames that hold the glass in place. The joints are soldered together for strength, and the entire panel is then sealed with a special lead light cement to make it weatherproof and rigid. Once cleaned and polished, the panel is ready to be installed.

Repairing leaded windows depends on the extent of the damage. For minor issues like a cracked pane, the glass can often be replaced in situ by carefully removing the broken piece, fitting a matching replacement, and resealing it within the existing leadwork. If the lead has deteriorated or the panel is bowed, the entire window may need to be removed and fully re-leaded in our specialist workshop.

Learn more about our lead window repairs here.

No, genuine stained glass will not fade over time. The rich colours are created by adding metal oxides to molten glass, so the colour becomes part of the glass itself rather than just a surface coating. However, any painted details may wear if not properly kiln-fired, which is why expert craftsmanship is key to long-lasting results.

At Sherriff Stained Glass Specialists, our stained-glass repairs are handled with care using time-honoured conservation techniques.Small breaks can often be fixed in situ: the damaged section is removed, a matching piece of glass is cut, then the lead came is folded back into place and waterproofed with lead light cement.

For more extensive damage – such as bowed panels or worn lead joints – the entire panel may need to be carefully removed to our workshop, disassembled, repaired, and rebuilt. Original glass is retained wherever possible, while cracked or missing sections are replaced with well-matched new glass and re-leaded for strength.

Learn more about our stained glass window repairs here.

Yes, leaded windows are perfectly safe when properly made and maintained. The lead used in the cames is stable and sealed within the window structure, so it doesn’t pose a health risk under normal conditions. At Sherriff Stained Glass Specialists, we ensure all leaded panels are securely constructed for modern living.